Scottsdale's Best Bites Under $25

Scottsdale’s dining scene isn’t just white tablecloths and three-digit tasting menus—it’s also stacked with knockout bites that ring in under $25. From chef-driven snacks and wood-fired pizzas to crave-worthy seafood soup and happy-hour sleepers, you can eat exceptionally well here without torching your budget. This guide to affordable bites zeroes in on the kind of plates locals actually order for a quick lunch, a solo treat at the bar, or a pre-show nosh—think concentrated flavor, smart portions, and strong value.

A few ground rules to keep it real: we’re talking menu prices under $25 per item (before tax and tip), with a focus on year-round staples—not unicorn specials that vanish next week. You’ll see a mix of casual counter service and polished dining rooms where the bar menu or happy hour is your best friend.

Kobe Beef Slider at The Phoenician Tavern

Perched above The Phoenician’s golf course, this lively tavern pairs wall-of-windows views and a sprawling patio with from-scratch, polished – and affordable – pub grub. The Kobe beef slider—a juicy, griddled classic with 1,000-island relish and American cheese—comes with crispy Tavern tots and absolutely crushes the value meter at $8. Happy hour runs daily 3–6 p.m. across the entire restaurant, with additional bites ($8–$12) like blistered shishitos, queso fundido, wings, and pull-apart pretzels—so you can build a filling spread and still stay under $25 (and there’s even complimentary parking).

Meatball Hero Pizza at Craft 64

From an award-winning pizzeria recognized by 50 Top Pizza, this pie eats like a classic Italian sub—only wood-fired. The Meatball Hero layers mozzarella, Parmesan, and bright tomato sauce with tender meatballs, sweet-and-spicy red peppers, fresh basil, and a finishing drizzle of garlic oil. It’s balanced, hearty, and built for sharing, but still clocks in under $25 if you’re flying solo.

The Original Chopped Salad at Citizen Public House

Scottsdale’s most famous salad (pictured) still earns its hype. Chef Bernie Kantak’s Cowboy Ciao–born creation—smoked salmon, pearl couscous, arugula, pepitas, asiago, currants, super-sweet dried corn, and marinated tomatoes—arrives to be tossed tableside with buttermilk-herb dressing. It’s savory, crunchy, a little sweet, and big enough to satisfy as a meal. Icon status without a splurge, and an affordable must-order for first-timers who want a true Scottsdale classic under $25.

Seafood Hot Pot at Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar and Grill

A sleeper value bowl that eats like a splurge: jumbo shrimp, salmon, and scallops bathe in a fragrant green curry–coconut broth, finished with fresh cilantro. The seafood stays tender, the broth is rich without being heavy, and the portion is generous enough to stand as a full meal. If you’re craving big flavor on a budget, this hot pot hits the sweet spot—comforting, aromatic, and squarely under the $25 mark.

Cacio e Pepe at The Ends

Minimalist and dialed-in: bucatini tossed with Pecorino, Laudemio olive oil, garlic, and a proper hit of cracked pepper. It’s the kind of pasta that lives or dies on technique, and this one delivers – silky, glossy and pepper-forward – all for a $22. A clean, satisfying plate that proves restraint and affordability can taste luxurious.

Street Tacos at DraftKings Sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale

Come for the wall of screens, stay for the tacos. This is game-day fuel that stays under budget: street tacos served with Spanish rice, elote, lime, cucumber, radish and cilantro. Options include carne asada ($18), quesabirria ($19) and shrimp ($19) – solid portions that eat like a full meal. 

Prices current at publication but are subject to change without notice.